Archaeology Desk Based Assessment

For all developments, an understanding of ground conditions is essential before beginning construction. This, as a necessity, includes a clear and concise understanding of the presence of archaeological remains. An Archaeology Desk Based Assessment from AB Heritage is a key tool in relation to assessing archaeology as part of a planning application.

These documents create a focussed understanding of what heritage assets (both known and potential) may exist below the surface and are fully compliant with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists Standards and Guidance on the production of Historic Environment Desk-Based Assessment (2017).

The work undertaken allow our dedicated team of Heritage Consultants to best guide our clients on opportunities to avoid impact at source, helping them successfully navigate the planning system in a way that balances the needs of development and the Historic Environment.

Produced through a collation of information contained in a wide range of sources, an Archaeology Desk Based Assessment includes examination of historic documents and plans as diverse as photos, maps, insurance records, diaries, articles and government documents from various Record Offices, Archives and Online Sources. We also personally undertake a full and detailed examination of the site of proposed development, to gain a first-hand appreciation of potential past impacts on the site, and to look for clues to the below ground archaeological resource.

Our consultants are also fully trained in the use and interrogation of Historic Environment Records; these are the primary statutory source for all information on the known archaeology and heritage of an area, detailing the location, form, date and specific information on the heritage assets present within and in proximity to a site. Our reports are further supported by analysis of documentation often provided by our clients and identified online, ranging from Geotechnical Investigation, Hydrological Testing, Topographic Survey and LiDAR to name only a few.

All the above however would be pointless without strong and clear consultation with the Local Planning Authority Archaeology and Conservation Officers. Strong and incisive consultation allows the team at AB Heritage to negotiate a suitable way forward for all in relation to the production of such documents.

An Archaeology Desk Based Assessment creates a plan of the known archaeology resource on and surrounding a site. From this our team can extrapolate and assess the potential for previously unknown archaeology to survive. In many cases we are able to confirm that the likelihood of archaeology remains on site is low, allowing for sign or for low-level mitigation to be put in place. However, where there is deemed to be a risk, AB Heritage is superbly placed to provide common-sense plans to avoid or reduce impact on known and potential archaeological remains, by developing targeted and appropriate investigation / mitigation strategies to allow for works to progress.

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